Cristiano Ronaldo endured a frustrating night in front of goal as Portugal began their 2026–27 UEFA Nations League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Wales in Lisbon.
João Félix scored the only goal of the match in the 22nd minute, giving new Portugal manager Jorge Jesus a winning start.
João Félix Gives Portugal the Lead
Portugal dominated possession from the opening stages and eventually broke the deadlock midway through the first half.
Félix received the ball near the edge of the penalty area before his low effort took a deflection off Wales captain Ben Davies and found the far corner.
The goal proved decisive as Portugal struggled to turn their dominance into more goals.
Ronaldo Has a Frustrating Night
Much of the attention was on Ronaldo, who started as Portugal captain at the age of 41.
The veteran forward had several opportunities but could not find the net. His second-half effort appeared to put the ball into the net, but it was ruled out for offside.
Ronaldo was substituted in the 67th minute, with Gonçalo Ramos coming on in his place.
According to Sky Sports, Ronaldo finished the match with seven shots but failed to score.
Wales Push for an Equaliser
Wales improved after the break and came close to finding an equaliser.
Brennan Johnson chipped Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa, but his effort struck the bar. Wales were unable to convert the resulting opportunity as Portugal held on.
Portugal ultimately finished with the victory despite Wales creating late pressure.
Jorge Jesus Starts With a Win
The match was also significant because it marked Jorge Jesus' first competitive game as Portugal's head coach.
Portugal entered the Nations League as defending champions and opened their campaign with three points.
The result also continued Portugal's strong recent record against Wales. UEFA records show Portugal have now won four of their five meetings with Wales, with the latest victory coming in Lisbon on September 24, 2026.
Portugal got the three points, but Ronaldo's frustrating night in front of goal will remain one of the biggest talking points from the match.
For Félix and Jorge Jesus, however, the 1-0 victory provides a positive opening to Portugal's latest Nations League campaign.
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